BY YOHANES JEMANEH
Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) has almost accomplished its law enforcement mission in Tigray State. The operation, which had been widely spoken about, came to pass following the atrocious attack by TPLF junta on the ENDF. Despite the human loss and material destructions,it has been finalized in a way that brought the leaders of the junta before law.
One of the factors that accelerated the demise of the junta during the operation was the bravery showcased by the national army in general and some hero soldiers in particular. And Private Gebeyanesh Debalke was among such heroes. She had showcased her unbelievable military skill and tactic when she coerced her treacherous commander, who betrayed his squad to join the junta, to surrender.
And their effort to enforce law following the November 4 attack on the ENDF by the junta, once again has bought admiration to them from the people. This incident or the victory over the junta also portrays that Ethiopia is yet able to provide heroic women like Empress Taitu Bitul, she noted.
On the occasion, a document that entails the heroic activities of women has been presented and discussed by celebrants. A poetry book written by Private Menbere Melese was also launched.
Not only Gebeyalesh, there are many who tried to save the lives of ENDF members fighting against the junta. As per military tactic, camouflaging themselves with the environment. In this manner, some also stayed in the enemy’s foothold until they got additional support from the army to tactically attack the junta with a strong power. And among such heroines who realized the victory this way is found Private Tesfanesh.
Private Gebeyanesh and Tesfanesh had lately received acknowledgement certificate and 10,000 Birr bond reward each for their notable deeds in the law enforcement operation. They received the reward from the Ministry of Defense (MoD) in an event organized by Ministry’s Women Affairs Directorate to mark the International Women’s Day.
The women proved to be symbols of heroism. Ethiopia is yet a land capable of providing heroic women. This has been proven in the recent law enforcement operation in Tigray State, where female soldiers exhibited their bravery defensing and attacking skills during the unexpected attack from the TPLF junta, MoD Women Affairs Director Major General Turye Assefe said on the occasion.
In her poem, Private Menbere questions the role of women in various battles including the victory of Adwa. The book expresses the indispensable role of women in the victory of Adwa as warriors, waitresses, and inspirers.
These days, the women soldiers are strong enough to tackle challenges beside their brothers to achieve victory over any enemy like the TPLF junta. They are graceful when they appear with great gear and patriotic zeal in their uniform which is a source of pride to the people are proud of it, said MoD Construction Sector State Minister Getachew Hailemariam.
Women, who are member of the ENDF, are playing a crucial role in ensuring peace at home and abroad that enabled them to win the heart of local people and the international community, Major General Turye added.
He stated that celebrating the International Women’s Day after overcoming the overall challenges orchestrated by local and foreign anti peace elements is an important stride both to the army and the people. And this will develop a sense of pride and belongingness between the two entities.
“We are celebrating the day on the wake of the victory over the junta. It is a double victory to our women soldiers. Not only women, the reformist administration will enable the army in general to overcome material and other limitations. We want to build a rock hard army that possibly defend nation from any kind of attempt of attack.” Building a strong army is putting the security of the nation on reliable hands, State Minister underlined.
The Ethiopian Herald March 24/2021
